Daniel & Grace
Things To Do
Magic Island Beach Park
This man-made island is a special place in the couple's heart. It marked the beginning of big milestones for the couple--the beginning of boyfriend/girlfriend and the beginning of fiancé/fiancée. It is also a staple go-to place for walks & talks, BBQs, swimming, and paddleboarding due to the soft waves and shallow waters. The beach is very child-friendly for playing in the water!
Lanikai Pillbox Trail
This is an easy-medium level hike with some amazing views all around--both of the mountains and the ocean. The couple went here together for a nice hike on one of their dates. A funny anecdote is that at the top of the mountain, Grace wanted to take a break. So, finding some nice shade, she squatted down and rested, urging Daniel to do the same. It wasn't until Daniel told her: "I am the shade, Grace," that she realized she was resting in the height of his shadow. This led to five minutes of straight laughter and is one of Grace's favorite memories with Daniel ;)
Dole Plantation
If you like pineapples, this is your spot! They sell soft serve ice cream, hard candies, yummy gummies, plushies, & anything you can think of that is pineapple flavored or themed. Complete with a gigantic pineapple-shaped maze and a railroad train ride through the plantation, you can even learn how to grow your own pineapple!
Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail
This trail is perfect for the whole family, no matter what age. It's a steadily inclined path and is paved the entire way, so it's also stroller-friendly! Moreover, the top has 360 degrees views of the ocean that are truly breathtaking. That said, there's not a lot of shade going up, so please bring your sunscreen and a hat! Fun fact: from December through April, humpback whales migrate from Alaska to the warm waters of Hawaii annually to give birth. See if you can spot one!
Kualoa Ranch
Outdoor adventures galore, Kualoa Ranch is the perfect place for ziplining, UTV adventures, bike tours, & horseback riding. Fun fact: Kualoa Ranch served as the filming location for many different Hollywood movies and television shows, including: Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, Kong: Skull Island, Lost, & many more!
Manoa Falls
This is a waterfall hike Daniel has enjoyed since he was a young child. This hike is rainforest-esque with many large trees all around. Keep in mind that since it's shaded the entire way with large trees, it can get pretty muddy! You'll also want to bring some bug spray and hiking boots (with some good traction so that you won't slip). All that said, the refreshing waterfall at the end is fantastic, and Manoa Falls won't fail to deliver.
Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden
This is a very beautiful spot where you can see all different types of unique plants. It's a great (& relatively quiet) date location perfect for a nice, sunny day. To top it off, there's a huge lake and gorgeous views of the green mountains surrounding the location.
Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
The Original, the one that everyone tries to copy (and technically also available above the H-mart in Kakaako, but where's the fun in that). At Giovanni's, you can get garlic shrimp scampi or a hot & spicy version. Moreover, it offers tasty smoothies on the side to add some sweet to the savory, or even to quell the heat. When you visit, remember to bring a Sharpie, since you can write on the truck itself!
Laniakea Beach
When the couple came out here, they made a wager of whether they would see turtles that day or not. Grace wagered that they probably wouldn't, but Daniel claimed that he had a superpower of making wild animals generally show up whenever available. Guess who won ? ;) If you choose to visit, please look to arrive around noon time for higher chances to see turtles! Tip: Water shoes might be useful here because there are some sharp rocks!
Polynesian Cultural Center
Never been to a luau? Want to go to one? PCC is a solid choice and has great food and spectacular entertainment. This center is a true staple for first-time visitors to Oahu.
Waiahole Poi Factory
Looking for Hawaiian staples like poi, lau lau, lomi salmon, beef luau, and da kine? Stop by, get yourself some chicken long rice (Grace's favorite) and a Kanaka nui plate (Daniel likes it since you get to try everything in one go), and get ready to experience the strongest food coma you've ever felt. But make sure to leave some room for dessert, because you don't want to miss getting a Sweet Lady or a Tahitian Sweet Lady ice cream with warm kulolo underneath.
Ice Palace Hawaii
Missing the mainland cold during this winter season? Well, this ice skating rink is a fantastic option and is the closest this island has got to experience any semblance of cold & snow. With good music and great fun, this is the ideal spot to escape some of the Hawaii heat and chill out (pun intended)!